China's electric vehicle industry transforms from laggard to leader in five years

China's electric vehicle (EV) industry has rapidly transformed from a global laggard to a leader in just five years. In 2020, EVs made up only 5.4% of China's car market, but now the country has exceeded its own targets for EV adoption. The shift began during the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted domestic manufacturers to increase production and quality. As global demand for gasoline cars fell, China capitalized on this by becoming the world's top exporter of automobiles in 2024. This contrasts with the slower responses seen in Western countries, where political and industry challenges have hindered progress. As China continues to lead in EV sales, other nations are urged to adapt to the changing automotive landscape.